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Optical Lab Jobs in Tempe, AZ (NOW HIRING)

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Mechanical Design Engineer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

PCB & Optical Integration: Work closely with electrical engineers to integrate custom PCBs, wiring ... Build, assemble, and bench-test functional prototypes using 3D printing, CNC machining, and lab ...

Package Failure Analysis Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prior experience working in a lab environment or with lab equipment in academic setting. * Experience including labs or coursework pertaining to optical analysis techniques such as SEM, TEM, x-ray, ...

Prior experience working in a lab environment or with lab equipment in academic setting. * Experience including labs or coursework pertaining to optical analysis techniques such as SEM, TEM, x-ray, ...

Provides technical consultation on measurement challenges, equipment issues, lab-to-factory ... Optical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. * 1+ years of Hands-on experience in ...

Provides technical consultation on measurement challenges, equipment issues, lab-to-factory ... Optical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. * 1+ years of Hands-on experience in ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Lab information

See Tempe, AZ salary details

$11

$21

$55

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Tempe, AZ is $21.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical lab?

An optical lab is a specialized facility where prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other optical devices are manufactured and assembled. These labs use advanced machinery and skilled technicians to cut, grind, and coat lenses according to a patient's prescription. Optical labs also fit lenses into frames, check for quality, and ensure that each pair of glasses meets the required standards for vision correction and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical lab technician?

To thrive as an Optical Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of lens fabrication, optical measurements, and quality control, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training in optics. Familiarity with lens edgers, surfacing machines, and digital measurement systems is essential, and certifications from organizations like the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) can be beneficial. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving skills help ensure precision and efficiency in daily tasks. These skills are critical for producing high-quality eyewear that meets both industry standards and customer needs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in an optical lab and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in an Optical Lab often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise quality control, managing high volumes of orders, and adapting to rapidly evolving lens technologies. Attention to detail is crucial, as even small errors can impact a patient's vision and satisfaction. To address these challenges, it’s important to follow strict standard operating procedures, utilize continuous training on new equipment, and foster strong communication with optometrists and sales teams to ensure accuracy and timely delivery.

What is the difference between Optical Lab vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical LabOptical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in lens fabricationHigh school diploma, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing setting, working with lens equipmentRetail or clinical setting, assisting with eyewear fitting
Job FocusFabricating and finishing lensesAssisting with eyewear adjustments and measurements

Optical Lab and Optical Technician roles are related but distinct. The Optical Lab primarily focuses on lens fabrication and finishing in a manufacturing environment, requiring specialized skills and equipment. In contrast, Optical Technicians often work directly with customers or in retail settings, assisting with eyewear fitting and adjustments. Both roles require knowledge of optics but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

How to work at an optical lab?

To work at an optical lab, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require training in lens fabrication, edging, and inspection. Familiarity with optical tools and safety procedures is important, and some positions may require certification or on-the-job training. Attention to detail and manual dexterity are essential skills for this role.

What job categories do people searching Optical Lab jobs in Tempe, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Lab jobs in Tempe, AZ are:

What cities near Tempe, AZ are hiring for Optical Lab jobs?

Cities near Tempe, AZ with the most Optical Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Tempe, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,368 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Nacho Offroad Technology

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

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Job description

The Role

We are seeking a mid-level Mechanical Design Engineer II to bring next-generation automotive lighting concepts to life. In this role, you will take hands-on ownership of physical enclosures, thermal management systems, optical packaging, and structural brackets. You’ll bridge the gap between initial napkin sketches and production-ready electro-mechanical assemblies.
You won't just be pushing CAD models; you will be driving DFM, building prototypes, running stress simulations, and ensuring our products withstand the harshest off-road conditions imaginable. If you thrive in a nimble environment, love optimizing heat dissipation, and naturally find yourself dissecting hardware or customizing off-road rigs in your spare time, you’ll fit right in.


Key Responsibilities


Electro-Mechanical & Thermal Packaging

• 3D CAD & Enclosure Design: Lead mechanical CAD development (SolidWorks) for rugged LED light housings, bezels, lenses, and mounting hardware.

• Thermal & Environmental Shielding: Design high-performance heat sinks and thermal dissipation pathways for high-output LED arrays while sealing housings against dust and high-pressure washing (IP68/IP69K).

• PCB & Optical Integration: Work closely with electrical engineers to integrate custom PCBs, wiring harnesses, lenses, and reflectors into tight mechanical footprints.


Materials, Prototyping & DFM


• Material Selection: Select optimal metals, engineered plastics, thermal interfaces, gaskets, and coatings to maximize strength, weight savings, and environmental resistance.

• Rapid Prototyping & Testing: Build, assemble, and bench-test functional prototypes using 3D printing, CNC machining, and lab environmental testing.

• Manufacturing Optimization: Design for Manufacturability/Assembly (DFM/DFA) across die-cast aluminum, injection molding, and sheet metal processes.

OEM Execution & Quality Standards

• OEM Technical Specs: Interpret, author, and validate mechanical drawing standards, tolerance stacks (GD&T), and technical specs for OEM clients.

• Automotive Compliance: Ensure all mechanical assemblies comply with SAE/DOT standards, vibration/shock requirements, and thermal shock cycles.

• Production Support: Partner with manufacturing teams and vendors to resolve tooling, tolerance, or assembly issues during initial production ramps.


Qualifications & Skill Set


• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or related field with 3–6 years of hands-on mechanical product design experience (preferably in automotive, lighting, or rugged electronics).

• Solid CAD & GD&T Skills: Strong proficiency in 3D CAD design (SolidWorks) and practical application of GD&T (ASME Y14.5).

• Electro-Mechanical Design: Proven experience packaging electronics, thermal interfaces, optical optics, or die-cast aluminum/injection-molded components.

• OEM Spec Mastery: Experience interpreting, creating, and validating engineering specifications and drawings for OEM automotive applications.

• Thermal & FEA Analysis: Fundamental knowledge of thermal simulation (CFD) and structural analysis (FEA) to validate designs prior to prototyping.


Preferred / Bonus Points


• Off-Road & Automotive Passion: Active involvement in the automotive or off-road community (overlanding, rock crawling, motorsports) is a huge plus—you understand the real-world abuse our gear faces.

• Optical Packaging: Familiarity with secondary optical design, reflector geometry, or polycarbonate lens molding.

• Supplier Coordination: Experience working with overseas or domestic tooling vendors and machine shops.

Company Description

Nacho Offroad Technology is a manufacturer of aftermarket automotive lighting. We take pride in being off road enthusiasts and design products we are passionate about. In-house design, validation, and manufacturing with an aggressive roadmap of new products planned. Looking for innovators and dreamers that know how to execute, while maintaining a fun positive attitude.